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I Said I Didn’t Care If You Showed Up — But I Did
A Bob’s Burgers episode cracked open a childhood memory I thought I had buried
Bob’s Burgers (2011) is my comfort show. I’ve rewatched it more times than I can count. However, every time I return to the holiday episode “The Plight Before Christmas” (Season 13, Episode 10), something tightens in my chest.
If you haven’t had the privilege to watch it yet, here’s a quick rundown: The show centers on the Belcher family. They’re quirky, chaotic, and deeply relatable. Bob is the tired but kind-hearted dad, flipping burgers to keep his tiny restaurant afloat. Linda is the eternal optimist, wine-loving soul, and has a gift for bursting into made-up songs. Their kids — awkward Tina, fart-obsessed Gene, and the brilliant and scheming Louise — each bring their addictive weirdness. Louise has always been my favorite.
In this episode, all three Belcher kids have holiday events scheduled at the same time. Gene’s performing in a xylophone concert. Tina is starring in a play with her Thundergirls troupe. And Louise is set to read a poem at the library — one she jokingly calls a “poop poem.” Bob and Linda, trying to do right by everyone, decide to split up: Bob goes to Gene, and Linda heads to Tina’s performance. Louise, in her usual sarcastic tone, insists she doesn’t care…
